Posting Language
Title
Authorize a contract for the one-time purchase of three portable handheld Raman spectroscopy analyzers, used to conduct preliminary narcotics testing and perform non-contact forensic analysis of various unknown substances, for Austin Police with Anton Paar USA, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $98,175. Funding: $98,175 is available in the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget of Austin Police.
Body
Lead Department
Austin Financial Services.
Client Department(s)
Austin Police.
Fiscal Note
Funding in the amount of $98,175 is available in the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget of Austin Police.
Procurement Language:
Austin Financial Services issued an Invitation for Bids solicitation IFB 8700 RBB1015 for these goods. The solicitation was published on June 29, 2026, and closed on August 11, 2026. Of the five offers received, the bid submitted by the recommended contractor was the lowest responsive bid received. A complete solicitation package, including a tabulation of the bids received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=144178.
MBE/WBE:
This contract will be awarded in compliance with the City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the goods required for this solicitation, there were no subcontracting opportunities; therefore, no subcontracting goals were established.
For More Information:
Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to Austin Financial Services - Central Procurement at: FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation.
Additional Backup Information:
The contract is for the purchase of three portable handheld Raman spectroscopy analyzers to support Austin Police field operations. These instruments are needed to enhance officers’ ability to conduct fast, accurate preliminary narcotics testing and perform non-contact forensic analysis of various unknown substances. By providing rapid identification of chemicals, explosives, narcotics, and other materials, the devices will significantly improve operational efficiency and officer safety during search warrant executions, vehicle or individual stops, and general “calls for service.”
This is a new contract. The authorization amount and quantities were determined based on the department’s needs and available funding.
A delay in contract approval could impact officer safety and slow down the identification process, delaying the filing criminal charges and reducing the responsiveness of daily police operations.